life was
better able to control and conceal her feelings. And so were the others
who, though pleased with the match, still felt that this was the
breaking up of some very tender ties; they would not allow their
thoughts to dwell upon that, but would occupy them with the mirth and
gaiety of the present.

But to Mrs. Croly, who had so far recovered under Dr. Conly's skilful
treatment that she was able to be present, it was all joy: she had
always wanted a daughter, and now was gaining one after her own heart;
for Rosie seemed to her all that was good, beautiful, and in every way
attractive. And then, in respect to family, fortune, everything that
could be thought of, she was all that could be desired. The elder Mr.
Croly, too, was entirely satisfied with the match, and already felt a
paternal interest in the young girl just entering his family. In fact
upon both sides there was perfect satisfaction with the match.

Everything went well; there was no bustle or confusion; minister and
guests were all there in due season; bride, groom, and attendants,
including the little flower girls, performed their parts without mistake
or discomposure. Kisses, congratulations, and good wishes followed; then
the wedding feast was partaken of leisurely and with mirth and jollity,
the bridal dress was exchanged for a beautiful travelling suit, the
farewells were spoken, with cheery reminders that the separation was to
be but temporary, the bride expecting soon to rejoin the dear home
circle. That thought was a very comforting one to her, and, though tears
had fallen at the parting from her loved ones,--especially her
mother,--they soon ceased their flow under the tenderly affectionate
caresses and endearments of him who was henceforward to be to her the
nearest and dearest of all earthly loved ones, and her face grew radiant
with happiness as he had hoped to see it on their bridal day.

CHAPTER XIII.

Nearly all the guests--relatives and dear friends--remained for some
hours after the departure of the bride and groom, some conversing
together upon the veranda, some wandering in couples or little companies
about the grounds or sitting in the shade of the beautiful trees on the
lawn.

Most of the young people, especially those of them who had been
attendants of the bride and groom, gathered about Grandma Elsie--for
they all loved her, and everyone felt that she had particular need of
some pleasant distraction of thought just at